The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (RFS) has imposed a total fire ban for significant portions of the state's central region, effective from Monday. The declaration comes as a response to forecasts of hot, dry, and windy conditions, creating a severe fire risk.
Regions Under Extreme and High Fire Danger
The Greater Hunter region is facing an 'extreme' fire danger rating. This area includes the local government areas of Cessnock, Dungog, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Newcastle, Port Stephens, Singleton, and Upper Hunter.
Simultaneously, the North Western region has been issued a 'high' fire danger rating. This zone encompasses the Moree Plains, Narrabri, Walgett, and Warrumbungle areas.
Urgent Safety Directives for Residents
For residents in the Greater Hunter region under the extreme rating, the message from the NSW RFS is unequivocal: "take action now to protect your life and property." The service has issued a stark warning that if a fire starts, immediate action is required.
The official advice states, "If you and your property are not prepared to the highest level, go to a safer location well before the fire impacts." This underscores the critical need for pre-emptive evacuation for those who are not fully prepared.
For communities in the North Western region under a high fire danger rating, residents are instructed to be "ready to act." The NSW RFS advises people to be alert for fires, decide on a course of action beforehand, and remember that "the safest option is to avoid bush fire risk areas."
Wider State Impact and Industry Warnings
The rest of the state, excluding the Far Western, New England, Far North Coast, North Coast, and Far South Coast regions, will also be under a high fire danger rating, though these areas are not subject to the total fire ban.
In a specific warning to the agricultural sector, harvest operators in regions with a "heightened risk" have been urged to stay updated with the latest RFS warnings. The service may issue a formal Harvest Safety Alert, highlighting the extreme dangers of operating heavy machinery in such volatile conditions.
During a total fire ban, no fires may be lit in the open and all existing fire permits are suspended. The community is reminded that vigilance and preparation are the best defences against fast-moving bushfires.
